Tenants often worry about who should pay when a lock breaks or keys go missing. In New Brunswick, basic rules separate landlord responsibilities for safety and secure entrances from tenant duties for loss or misuse of keys. This guide explains common scenarios, how to document damage, and practical steps to request repairs or replacements without escalating conflict. It also shows when the Residential Tenancies Tribunal can help and which official forms to use. Use the information here to protect your rights as a renter, keep records of costs and communications, and avoid unnecessary deductions from deposits. If you rent with others, share these steps so everyone knows who should act and who may be charged.
Who is responsible for locks in New Brunswick?
Landlords must provide and maintain locks that keep a rental unit reasonably secure. Tenants are responsible for replacing keys they lose or for damage they cause. If a lock failure affects habitability or security the landlord usually must repair or replace the lock at their cost. For questions about enforcement or disputes, the provincial Residential Tenancies Program and Tribunal can hear applications and orders [1]. Refer to the province's tenancy legislation for the legal duties that apply in New Brunswick [2].
Common situations and who usually pays
- Worn or faulty exterior locks caused by age or ordinary wear — landlord pays to repair or replace the lock.
- Lost keys or tenant-caused lockouts — tenant usually pays for replacement keys or lock changes unless the landlord agrees otherwise.
- Damage from forced entry or vandalism — the responsible party pays; if the cause is unclear, document and report it promptly.
- Security concerns that require immediate lock changes for safety — the landlord typically arranges and covers costs unless tenant conduct caused the risk.
For urgent safety repairs and emergency entry situations, see the guidance on Emergency Situations and Repairs: Tenant Rights and Responsibilities and how routine maintenance is handled in rental units in the province at Routine Repairs in Rental Units: Tenant and Landlord Responsibilities. If replacing a lock is a landlord responsibility, ask for written confirmation and a timeline in case you need to file an application with the tribunal [1].
Getting quotes, receipts and approval
Whether you or the landlord arranges the work, keep written quotes and paid receipts. A clear paper trail makes it easier to challenge improper charges or to request reimbursement.
- Ask the repairer for a written quote before work starts and a detailed receipt after completion.
- Take photos of the damaged lock or door and keep any text or email exchanges with the landlord.
- If the landlord asks you to pay, ask for written approval confirming reimbursement terms and timelines.
When to contact the Residential Tenancies Tribunal
If you cannot agree with the landlord about who pays, or if repairs that affect security or habitability are not completed within a reasonable time, you may file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal to request an order for repairs or reimbursement [1]. Include quotes, receipts, photos and a log of communications.
FAQ
- Who pays if a lock breaks from normal wear and tear?
- The landlord is usually responsible for worn or faulty locks because maintaining secure entryways is part of their duty to keep the unit safe and habitable.
- Am I responsible if I lose my keys?
- Yes, tenants are commonly responsible for replacing lost keys or the cost to rekey a lock, unless the landlord agrees to cover the cost or the loss was caused by the landlord's negligence.
- Can a landlord enter my unit to fix a lock?
- Landlords may enter to make repairs but must follow notice and entry rules in the tenancy legislation; in emergencies they can enter without prior notice to protect safety or prevent significant damage.
How-To
- Contact your landlord or property manager right away, explain the problem and ask if they will arrange and pay for the repair.
- Document the issue with photos and written messages, and keep copies of any quotes and receipts you receive.
- If the landlord does not act, get one or more written quotes from qualified locksmiths and send them to the landlord with a clear request for action.
- If the dispute continues, file an application with the Residential Tenancies Tribunal including all documentation and a request for reimbursement or an order to repair.
Help and Support / Resources
- Residential Tenancies Program - Government of New Brunswick
- Residential Tenancies Act - New Brunswick
